Mechanic

Dallas Zoo Management; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Dallas Zoo Management is seeking a skilled Mechanic to ensure safe, reliable operation of the Zoo’s fleet, equipment, rides, and mechanical systems. You will perform preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on gas-powered, diesel, and electric assets, supporting daily operations, events, and animal care needs.

Responsibilities include documenting service logs, inspecting components, and collaborating with staff, contractors, and vendors.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two (2) years of hands‑on experience in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, industrial maintenance, amusement rides, municipal fleet, agricultural equipment, or similar mechanical fields.

Responsibilities

• Perform scheduled preventive and corrective maintenance on fleet vehicles, equipment, rides, and power tools to ensure safe operation.
• Conduct inspections, identify potential failures, and recommend corrective actions before breakdowns occur.
• Assist with ride and equipment start‑up, testing, and verification prior to return to service, following procedures.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and inspection documentation.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, fuel, ignition, braking, steering, cooling, and exhaust systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair gas, diesel, and electric powered equipment.
• Repair and maintain hydraulic equipment, systems, gates, and actuators.
• Perform maintenance on Zoo rides and attractions (Mini Train, Carousel, Zipline) per manufacturer and safety standards.

Skills

Preventive maintenance

Troubleshooting

Mechanical aptitude

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Mechanic is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Zoo’s fleet, equipment, rides, and mechanical systems. This role performs preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on a wide range of assets, including gas‑powered and diesel vehicles, heavy equipment, utility carts, rides, hydraulic systems, and electric motors. This position plays a critical role in supporting safety‑critical, guest‑facing assets by minimizing downtime, extending asset life, and supporting daily operations, special events, and animal care needs.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform scheduled preventive and corrective maintenance on fleet vehicles, equipment, rides, and power tools to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Conduct inspections, identify potential failures, and recommend corrective actions before breakdowns occur.
• Assist with ride and equipment start‑up, testing, and verification prior to return to service, following established procedures.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and inspection documentation.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, fuel, ignition, braking, steering, cooling, and exhaust systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair gas, diesel, and electric‑powered equipment.
• Repair and maintain hydraulic equipment, systems, gates, and actuators.
• Perform and document maintenance, inspections, troubleshooting, and repairs on Zoo rides and attractions, including the Mini Train, Carousel, and Zipline, in accordance with manufacturer requirements and safety standards.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and shop areas in clean, organized, and safe conditions.
• Identify needed parts and supplies and communicate shortages or replacement needs to supervision.
• Respond to service calls and equipment issues across the Zoo campus.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with Zoo staff, contractors, and vendors.
• Interact courteously with Zoo guests as needed, maintaining a positive guest experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of two (2) years of hands‑on experience in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, industrial maintenance, amusement rides, municipal fleet, agricultural equipment, or similar mechanical fields.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.
• Ability to read and interpret service manuals, schematics, and technical instructions.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and operational demands.
• Self‑motivated, dependable, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff and the public.
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach overhead, pull, bend, and climb stairs and ladders.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Availability to work weekends, holidays, nights, and evenings as operational needs require.
• Successful candidates must pass pre‑employment drug screening, background check, and TB test.